Voice of Nigeria to Launch Mandarin Broadcasts in Partnership with China
The Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Malam Jibrin Ndace, announced that the organization is collaborating with China to introduce Mandarin broadcasts. This new initiative aims to broaden VON’s reach and foster cultural exchange between Nigeria, China, and Africa.
Speaking at a dinner hosted by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) group of ambassadors and High Commissioners in Abuja, Ndace emphasized that this partnership will help highlight positive narratives about Nigeria and Africa, enhancing global perceptions of the continent.
“I am excited to share that we are working with the Chinese government to start broadcasting in Mandarin. This strategic move will allow us to engage with a large audience in China and build stronger cultural ties,” Ndace stated.
He also suggested forming a partnership between SADC countries and VON to create a unified narrative that reflects Africa’s diverse and rich culture. Ndace offered VON’s platform to journalists from SADC nations to share their stories and promote a positive image of the continent.
“We want to collaborate with SADC countries to foster cultural exchange, encourage intra-African travel, and support educational and economic partnerships,” he added. Ndace stressed the importance of celebrating Africa’s beauty, diversity, and resilience, and urged Africans to focus on their strengths rather than challenges.
In his remarks, José Zau, Angolan Ambassador to Nigeria, highlighted the significance of SADC’s 32nd anniversary, noting the transfer of the chairmanship from Mozambique’s President Joe Mrosso to Zimbabwe’s President Emerson Mnangagwa. Zau emphasized that Mnangagwa’s term would prioritize innovation as a key driver for sustainable economic growth.
Zau reflected on SADC’s progress in addressing challenges such as apartheid, consolidating independence, and promoting democratic values. He expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s support and reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to regional peace, security, and development, particularly in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province.
The ambassador reiterated SADC’s mission to achieve sustainable growth and development through regional cooperation, good governance, and lasting peace. He emphasized the bloc’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships, including with Russia, and its focus on industrialization, food security, and tourism.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) notes that SADC is a prominent African regional organization dedicated to enhancing industrialization, food security, and stability in international relations.
